The 66-year-old, who has won two Oscars and directed 28 films, has been part of the Cannes scene since his 1974 film Sugarland Express picked up the best screenplay prize. "Cannes is the most prestigious of its kind," he said.

Spielberg added: "The memory of my first Cannes Film Festival visit, nearly 31 years ago with the debut of E.T., is still one of the most vibrant memories of my career. It is an honour and a privilege to preside over the jury of a festival that proves, again and again, that cinema is the language of the world."

This year's festival runs from 15-26 May and New Zealand film director Jane Campion has already been announced as the head of the jury for the Cinéfondation and Short Film sections. The jury, which decides which film wins the coveted Palme d'Or, last year included actor Ewan McGregor and fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier.

Spielberg's reputaton as a master filmaker made him an obvious choice to head up the jury of one of the world's most influential film festivals, the organisers said. Festival President Gilles Jacob said: "Ever since E.T. screened at Cannes in 1982, I've often asked Steven to be jury president, but he's always been shooting a film. So when this year I was told 'E.T., phone home,' I understood and immediately replied: 'At last!' Because of his films, and the many causes he holds dear, he's year-in year-out the equal of the very greatest Hollywood filmmakers. We are very proud to count him among us."

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Spielberg has directed blockbusters such as Jaws, Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park and won Oscars for his films Schindler's List (1994) and Saving Private Ryan (1998). He was nominated for his recent film Lincoln but Ang Lee beat Spielberg to best director for The Life of Pi.

Spielberg is married to actress Kate Capshaw, with whom he has five children, and he also has another child with his first wife, Amy Irving. His upcoming projects include teaming up with Harrison Ford again on Indiana Jones 5.